Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

Director: David Lean
Writer: T.E. Lawrence, Robert Bolt
Stars: Peter O'Toole, Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn 
Runtime: 216 minutes

Plot: Follows a brilliant, flamboyant and controversial British military figure and his conflicted loyalties during wartime service.

Review: Two years in the making, Lawrence of Arabia is the very definition of a big-screen historical epic, sweeping in scope, ambitious and gorgeously realized. Based on the life of British officer/adventurer T.E. Lawrence, it's justly famous for its ferocious battle scenes and evocation of the harshly beautiful Arabian deserts. The classic movie won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Lawrence was an obscure lieutenant serving in Cairo in World War I, known for his classical education, knowledge of Arab language and culture and general lack of discipline. With a mixture of real historical figures and events, composite characters and invention, the movie follows Lawrence's military triumphs. 

For a movie that runs 216 minutes, plus intermission, "Lawrence of Arabia" is not dense with plot details. It is a spare movie in clean, uncluttered lines, and there is never a moment when we're in doubt about the logistical details of the various campaigns. There are some great things in this film - which runs for 3 hours and 40 minutes, not counting intermission. There is some magnificent scenery, barbaric fights, a mirage in the desert that is superb. 

Seeing David Lean's masterpiece on the big screen defines why cinema is the art form it is and what can be achieved when every aspect that goes into making a film is functioning at its optimum level. There are many films which are great. There are some which are outstanding. There are a few which are close to cinematic perfection. Above all these, there is Lawrence of Arabia.

Reviewed by Intisab Shahriyar